:: Algae

DOI : https://doi.org/10.4490/algae.2014.29.3.197

Algae. 2014; 29(3): 197-201.

doi: https://doi.org/10.4490/algae.2014.29.3.197

Akashiwo sanguinea (Dinophyceae) extruding mucous from pores on the cell surface

Susan Badylak¹, Edward J. Phlips¹^,*, A. Loren Mathews¹ and Karen Kelley²

¹Fisheries and Aquatic Science, School of Forest Resources and Conservation, University of Florida, 7922 NW 71 St., Gainesville, FL 32653, USA ²ICBR Electron Microscopy and BioImaging Laboratory, University of Florida, 1052 Museum Rd., Gainesville, FL 32611-0700, USA

ABSTRACT

This is the first recorded observation of Akashiwo sanguinea excreting mucilaginous substances from pores on the cell surface. Observations were from samples collected in the Caloosahatchee Estuary, Florida, USA during a bloom event, with densities of 672 cells mL-1 of A. sanguinea, including 51 cells surrounded by mucous. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that the mucous was secreted from thecal pores on the cell surface. The potential significance of mucous production is discussed.

Keywords : Akashiwo sanguinea; cyst; dinoflagellate; HAB; mucocyst; reproduction; trichocyst